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Drilling Rig Hand Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

... drilling and turbine operations. • Using hand and power tools, modify, clean, and maintain pipe systems, units, fittings, pumps, and related machines and equipment following specifications. • ...

Rig Team Lead

Stockton, CA · On-site

$25 - $31/hr

... drilling and turbine operations. • Using hand and power tools, modify, clean, and maintain pipe systems, units, fittings, pumps, and related machines and equipment following specifications. • ...

Rig Team Lead

Woodland, CA · On-site

$25 - $31/hr

... drilling and turbine operations. • Using hand and power tools, modify, clean, and maintain pipe systems, units, fittings, pumps, and related machines and equipment following specifications. • ...

Rig Team Lead

Woodland, CA · On-site

$25 - $31/hr

... drilling and turbine operations. • Using hand and power tools, modify, clean, and maintain pipe systems, units, fittings, pumps, and related machines and equipment following specifications. • ...

... drilling and turbine operations. • Using hand and power tools, modify, clean, and maintain pipe systems, units, fittings, pumps, and related machines and equipment following specifications. • ...

... drilling and turbine operations. • Using hand and power tools, modify, clean, and maintain pipe systems, units, fittings, pumps, and related machines and equipment following specifications. • ...

Rig Team Lead

Guadalupe, CA · On-site

$25 - $31/hr

... drilling and turbine operations. • Using hand and power tools, modify, clean, and maintain pipe systems, units, fittings, pumps, and related machines and equipment following specifications. • ...

Rig Team Lead

Guadalupe, CA · On-site

$25 - $31/hr

... drilling and turbine operations. • Using hand and power tools, modify, clean, and maintain pipe systems, units, fittings, pumps, and related machines and equipment following specifications. • ...

... drilling and turbine operations. • Using hand and power tools, modify, clean, and maintain pipe systems, units, fittings, pumps, and related machines and equipment following specifications. • ...

... drilling and turbine operations. • Using hand and power tools, modify, clean, and maintain pipe systems, units, fittings, pumps, and related machines and equipment following specifications. • ...

... drilling and turbine operations. • Using hand and power tools, modify, clean, and maintain pipe systems, units, fittings, pumps, and related machines and equipment following specifications. • ...

Rig Team Lead

Elk Grove, CA · On-site

$25 - $31/hr

... drilling and turbine operations. • Using hand and power tools, modify, clean, and maintain pipe systems, units, fittings, pumps, and related machines and equipment following specifications. • ...

... drilling and turbine operations. • Using hand and power tools, modify, clean, and maintain pipe systems, units, fittings, pumps, and related machines and equipment following specifications. • ...

Rig Helper II

Bakersfield, CA · On-site

$21 - $26/hr

... drilling and turbine operations. • Using hand and power tools, modify, clean, and maintain pipe systems, units, fittings, pumps, and related machines and equipment following specifications. • ...

Rig Helper II

Bakersfield, CA · On-site

$21 - $26/hr

... drilling and turbine operations. • Using hand and power tools, modify, clean, and maintain pipe systems, units, fittings, pumps, and related machines and equipment following specifications. • ...

Knowledge of drilling rigs and equipment preferred. In addition, flexibility with the ability to ... Responsible for keeping rig and equipment in good working order and condition * Document exceptions ...

Mechanic

Upland, CA

$25 - $35/hr

Knowledge of drilling rigs and equipment preferred. In addition, flexibility with the ability to ... Responsible for keeping rig and equipment in good working order and condition * Document exceptions ...

Knowledge of drilling rigs and equipment preferred. In addition, flexibility with the ability to ... Responsible for keeping rig and equipment in good working order and condition * Document exceptions ...

Knowledge of drilling rigs and equipment preferred. In addition, flexibility with the ability to ... Responsible for keeping rig and equipment in good working order and condition * Document exceptions ...

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Showing results 1-20

Drilling Rig Hand information

See California salary details

$14

$24

$34

How much do drilling rig hand jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for drilling rig hand in California is $24.56, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.55 and $33.70 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Drilling Rig Hand, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Drilling Rig Hand, you need physical stamina, mechanical aptitude, and a basic understanding of drilling operations, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with safety protocols, hand and power tools, and sometimes certifications like H2S Alive or First Aid are commonly required. Strong teamwork, communication, and attention to detail are crucial soft skills for working efficiently and safely on-site. These abilities are vital to ensure safety, operational efficiency, and the successful completion of drilling projects in demanding environments.

What are some common challenges faced by Drilling Rig Hands, and how can they be managed on the job?

Drilling Rig Hands often encounter physically demanding tasks, exposure to harsh weather, and long shifts that can extend beyond typical working hours. Maintaining safety is a top priority, as the work involves heavy machinery and potentially hazardous materials. Effective communication and teamwork are essential, since Rig Hands coordinate closely with other crew members to ensure smooth operations and prevent accidents. Adapting to changing conditions and staying attentive to safety protocols can help manage these challenges and contribute to a successful rig environment.

What are Drilling Rig Hands?

Drilling Rig Hands, often referred to as roughnecks, are entry-level workers on oil and gas drilling rigs. They are responsible for a variety of manual labor tasks such as handling drilling equipment, maintaining the rig, and assisting more experienced crew members with drilling operations. Rig Hands work in physically demanding environments and often follow strict safety protocols. Their work is essential to the smooth and efficient operation of drilling rigs. Over time, Rig Hands can advance to higher positions with experience and training.

What is the difference between Drilling Rig Hand vs Derrickhand?

AspectDrilling Rig HandDerrickhand
CredentialsHigh school diploma, safety training, basic certificationsSimilar certifications, more specialized safety training
Work EnvironmentOn drilling rigs, outdoors, physically demandingOn drilling rigs, working in the derrick, physically demanding
Job ResponsibilitiesAssisting with equipment, maintenance, safety proceduresHandling drilling fluid, maintaining the derrick, assisting in drilling operations

The main difference between a Drilling Rig Hand and a Derrickhand lies in their specific roles on the rig. While both work in similar environments and require comparable certifications, Derrickhands focus more on managing drilling fluids and working in the derrick, whereas Drilling Rig Hands assist with general equipment and safety tasks. Both positions are essential for efficient drilling operations and often overlap in skills and training.

What are popular job titles related to Drilling Rig Hand jobs in California? For Drilling Rig Hand jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Drilling Rig Hand jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Drilling Rig Hand jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Drilling Rig Hand jobs? Cities in California with the most Drilling Rig Hand job openings:
Infographic showing various Drilling Rig Hand job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 81% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,085 per year, or $24.6 per hour.
Rig Team Lead

$25 - $31/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 20 days ago


Rain for Rent rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 20 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

57th of 148 rated vehicle equipment hire


Job description

The Rig Team Lead will assist with the installation, maintenance, and operation of drilling equipment used for water wells, irrigation systems, and agriculturally based rig activities. Lay out, assemble, and maintain pipe, pumps, and related equipment for agricultural or industrial work sites. Instruct and lead field technician employees on a day-to-day basis. Positively represent the Company and maintain good relations with coworkers and customers. Will assist with training and guiding newer employees and ensures work is performed safely, efficiently, and to high quality standards.

What we do:

At Rain for Rent, we move water—every day. As the leading provider of temporary liquid handling solutions, we’re recognized for our systems engineering expertise, cost-effective problem solving, and the high value we deliver to organizations facing critical liquid management challenges.  Our experienced teams, supported by skilled engineers, are continually redefining what customers expect from a liquid handling provider. We design innovative equipment and harness cutting-edge technology to meet the demands of the toughest environments. From water handling and irrigation to temporary liquid storage, our solutions consistently exceed customer expectations for quality and service. We are committed to completing every project safely, efficiently, on time—and done right the first time.

To learn more about Rain for Rent please check out this short 2 minute YouTube video here.

Rain for Rent employees take great pride in being part of a family-owned company with a rich and enduring legacy. For over 91 years, we’ve delivered consistent, high-quality products and services to our customers. With more than 70 locations across the U.S., Canada, and the UK, Rain for Rent remains committed to excellence. Honesty and integrity are at the core of everything we do. Our dedicated team strives to exceed expectations through exceptional service and unwavering quality.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:


• Train department personnel including providing day-to-day instruction and guidance on how to perform work safely, quickly, and with quality workmanship.
• Lead a crew of 3-5 Rig Helpers per project. Complete projects independently as required by management.
• Enforce safety practices and proper use of PPE.
• Inspects finished jobs to ensure quality control standards have been met.
• Helps and oversees the installation of Irrigation projects (Pumps, Pipe, Permanent Installation, etc.).
• Bundling Irrigation Pipe along with Loading/Unloading of pipe. Prepping, Loading and Pump Teardowns. Assemble and secure pipes, fittings, and related equipment, according to project specifications.
• Read work orders and receive oral instructions to determine work assignments and material and equipment needs. Load, secure, and unload materials and equipment with appropriate tools, machinery, and other equipment according to specifications.
• Handle tools, pipe, casing, and other materials used in drilling and turbine operations.
• Using hand and power tools, modify, clean, and maintain pipe systems, units, fittings, pumps, and related machines and equipment following specifications.
• Track and maintain company tools and supplies, report any damage or missing items to Lead, Supervisor, or Manager.
• Inspect, examine, and test installed systems and pipelines, using pressure gauge, hydrostatic testing, observation, or other methods.
• Perform demonstration of equipment for customers upon installation and testing completion if required. Complete Job Site Analysis for customer job sites where work is to be performed.
• Conducts pre-trip vehicle inspections for proper maintenance and running of vehicle prior to operating the vehicle on the road or in the yard. Perform basic equipment inspections and report maintenance needs.
• Assist with minor maintenance and cleaning of rig truck, tools, supplies and equipment to support a clean, organized, and safe worksite.
• Other duties as assigned in support of the operation.

What we offer:

    At Rain for Rent, we take pride in taking care of our team. We offer a comprehensive benefits package and a supportive work environment where employees can thrive both personally and professionally. Our offerings include:

    • Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance
    • Matching 401(k) retirement savings plan
    • Competitive base salary
    • Nine paid holidays and a generous paid time off (PTO) program
    • Tuition reimbursement to support continued education
    • Company-sponsored training and career development opportunities
    •  And many other valuable perks

    We are proud to support those who have served our country. We are honored to share that Rain for Rent has earned the Military Friendly® Employer Gold (MFE) Gold Designation for 2026! This is our fourth consecutive year being recognized, and our second year achieving Gold-level distinction. We are committed to hiring and supporting veterans. Vets - Rain for Rent® When you join the Rain for Rent team, you're not just building a career—you’re building meaningful relationships, doing work that matters, and making a positive impact in your community. The choice is easy. Join the Rain for Rent team today.

    **Rain for Rent does not accept 3rd party applicants**

    Rain for Rent is proud to be an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, disability, veteran status, gender identity, and sexual orientation, and other statuses protected by law.

    Estimate Pay: $25.00 - $31.00 per hour DOE

     #LI-BB1


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